Neku Cannabis has opened in Hamilton, replacing Che Burrito & Lounge
- Robert Cekan
- 30 Dec 2020
An anchor bar in the city that’s been around for 14 years has pivoted to becoming a cannabis retailer that embodies the inclusive space it used to operate as.
“Che was only about good vibes and that’s what we’re trying to embody here,” says owner Ned Kuruc.
When the province began locking down in March to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the operators of the 14-year-old bar knew they would not be able to sustain the space during an era where nightclubs and restaurants would be so adversely affected.
As a result, the bar pivoted into a different direction but one that honoured the space it used to be for a decade and a half.
“This is a pretty cool space so why would we come in here to rip it all apart to add white walls and turn it into an Apple Store? It doesn’t make sense,” explains Kuruc.
General Manager Scott McDonald who’s a respected figure in Hamilton’s art community (known for spearheading Concrete Canvas and his involvement with The Local Skateshop and building skateparks in Cuba) couldn’t agree more that their Hess Village location has to embody the spirit of Che’s.
“None of my stores will look alike,” says Kuruc who plans on expanding the Neku Cannabis brand across Ontario. “If we find a cool space and there’s a story behind it, we’ll try to pull that out, embody it, and retrofit the space for selling cannabis. Oddly enough, these are the graveyards of COVID. If it wasn’t for this pandemic, my dining room would still be open and we could stay afloat.”
The team behind Neku Cannabis believes that having been rooted in Hamilton for so long through various businesses and events gives them an edge over other shops who are owned by “out-of-town corporates who don’t know the area or the people here.” Having been Hamilton business owners for 20+ years, they may be onto something.
Another interesting aspect of Neku is what they plan on doing with the front of their building.
Since they have no use for an outdoor patio anymore, they will use that space as a permanent art installation that will have a rotating canvas of murals designed by local artists on a monthly basis.
Currently the front of the building features two owls that are native to Ontario.
“Our hope is that other landlords in the city will see what we’re doing and donate walls and unused patios to create more art in the city,” Kuruc explains.
Neku’s primary goal is to offer unique cannabis stores with a focus on art and culture. Judging by what we saw in person, it looks like they’re doing a great job living that mantra.
As of today, Neku Cannabis is officially open for curbside pickup and delivery.
Find them at 38 Hess St S in Hamilton or online at nekucannabis.com
Or hit them up with a phone call at 905-524-5555
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